Justin Burnell admitted London Welsh had received some big rugby lessons as they crashed to a 52-20 home defeat to Bordeaux Begles at the Kassam Stadium last night.

The Exiles’ head coach praised his side’s endeavour, but said the seven-try visitors had been a cut above in the European Challenge Cup clash.

“First of all, we need to keep hold of the ball, that’s the biggest thing,” said Burnell.

“Three of their tries came from our attacking zone.

“We spilled the ball and it was just two or three passes.

“They had pace to burn. Once the ball gets into the hands of some of those top-end finishers, it is a pretty difficult task.

“There are no margins in the Aviva Premiership or Top 14. You have got no room.

“Once you make an error, you’re toast basically.

“It’s unbelievable actually.”

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